But the selectors’ choice was always Virat Kohli and the Delhi man it was, who took charge of the team when Mahendra Singh Dhoni injured his right hamstring during the first game against the West Indies at Kingston on Sunday. Kohli’s unpredictable ways notwithstanding, the establishment cannot be pardoned for not naming a deputy for the series. Vice-captaincy involves leadership as well, and this aspect must be dealt with in all thoroughness.

If Kohli views his elevation positively, it will help his batting. If he considers it as an additional burden, it will reflect in his scores at a time when he is a bit short of runs.